The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed the death of an ostrich at Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, B.C., which was part of a flock that recently received a reprieve from a cull order by the Supreme Court of Canada. The agency stated that the bird had a pre-existing condition and a previous injury affecting its left leg and mobility, and had been under treatment by the farm owners. Unfortunately, the bird’s health deteriorated significantly over a two-day period, leading to its passing on Saturday.
In response to the incident, farm spokesperson Katie Pasitney shared a video on Facebook announcing the ostrich’s death and accusing the CFIA of animal cruelty by allegedly mishandling electrolytes. The CFIA, while not immediately addressing these claims, stated that they had been providing medication and electrolyte fluids as per the treatment plan advised by the farm owners.
The cull order was initially issued due to an avian flu outbreak at the farm, but the farm owners disputed the decision, arguing that the surviving birds were healthy and held scientific value. Following a last-minute stay granted by the Supreme Court of Canada last month, the cull was temporarily halted. The CFIA declared its intention to abide by the court’s decision and submit a response to the High Court while maintaining supervision of the ostrich enclosure at the farm near Edgewood in southeastern B.C.
